Los Angeles Chargers Remain Strong Despite Record

Chargers Improved Positions
Los Angeles Chargers Quarterback Philip Rivers. Photo Credit: Nathan Rupert - Under Creative Commons License

Ask any Chargers fan at the beginning of the season, any one of them back then would shake their heads, even let out an occasional chuckle saying “are you kidding me”. Fast forward to mid-season and Los Angeles Chargers fans are now seen with a curious look as their team has found their way back into the playoff picture and even have a chance to top the AFC West.

Even during their 0-4 start, the team seemed to have all the pieces together, except for closing out games. In fact, three of the first four losses was a difference of three points or less. Still, the relocation of the franchise from San Diego didn’t seem to help the teams history of heart-wrenching defeats.

All of a sudden, however, the victories started coming and after a dominant Thanksgiving Day win over the Dallas Cowboys, Chargers fans have many reasons to start paying attention as they have won five of their past seven games.  However, incredible odds still loom over the surging Chargers as the Kansas City Chiefs remain in the way of a division lead.

Chargers head coach Anthony Lynn gives credit to his fellow coaches for getting his players ready to play, especially for the previous week when they played two games in 11 days. Many players stepped up to the plate as Quarterback Philip Rivers had one of the most solid performances in his career and the defense ran all over the Cowboys offense. Key offensive players have stepped up to the plate including top receiver Keenan Allenwho clicked for 172 total yards on 11 catches in Thursday’s matchup, and up and coming tight end Hunter Henrywho has been a key offensive asset and another weapon in the passing game.

The defense has been key as well during the Chargers recent surge. Players such as Defensive Ends Joey Bosa and Melvin Ingram have stepped it up and led the defensive core to more sacks and have led to quarterbacks feeling uncomfortable in the pocket. The most credit though has to be given to Lynn who has gained the respect of many of his players by refusing to give up.

The most credit though has to be given to Lynn who has gained the respect of many of his players by refusing to give up.

As the Chargers look forward to their next matchup against the winless Cleveland Browns, the team will seek to get over their shocking loss last season, which gave the Browns their only win of the year. According to stats, expect the Chargers to have a field day with their offense and defense.

With the AFC West opening up more and more, the Chargers at this point, control their own destiny with a fairly easy schedule in the last weeks of the season. However, a must-win scenario is still looming for the team every week going forward as they still have key matchups with the Chiefs and a New Years Eve showdown with the Oakland Raiders